Mineral Deodorant

Are mineral deodorants really all-natural?

Jun 7, 2011

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No longer unique to health-food and specialty stores, mineral deodorants are showing up on drugstore shelves. But while they may claim to be natural, some contain the antiperspirant aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrexgly, which is lab-made. If you want to go the all-natural route, choose a true deodorant. While it won't stop you from sweating (only an antiperspirant can do that), it can help prevent stinkiness. "Sweat itself is generally odorless; it's typically when it mixes with bacteria that you get a foul smell," explains Boston-based dermatologist Ranella Hirsch, M.D. "Mineral salts help keep bacteria in check, putting the brakes on odor." Try Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal ($4, GNC), made of just mineral salts and aloe. Or opt for Arm & Hammer Essentials Natural Deodorant ($3, drugstores), which relies on sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to both neutralize odor and help absorb moisture.

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